According to HES officials, big, black dogs often are the last to be adopted from animal shelters, a phenomenon known as black dog syndrome.

The Black Dog Adopt-athon will last from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Through November, the adoption fee for black dogs is $50. The fee includes sterilization, rabies shot, microchip and a health check.

VOTE FOR A FAVORITE SHELTER
Dozens of area shelters and rescue organizations are encouraging supporters to cast votes online for a chance to win $10,000 in a nationwide contest.

The America's Favorite Animal Shelter contest is sponsored by Care2 and Adopt-a-Pet.com to raise awareness of the need to adopt shelter and rescue animals. In addition to the grand prize, Care2 is awarding $13,500 to nine runners-up. The winner of the contest is determined by local supporters. To vote, go to www.care2.com/animalsheltercontest and enter your ZIP code for a list of candidates. The contest runs through mid-December.

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